Flow Cell Holder With Alignment Pins And Separators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Reversible flow cells are difficult to assemble and disassemble manually due to the need for precise alignment of multiple pieces, which can lead to damage of fragile components and samples, especially in applications requiring access to the inside surface or conservation of expensive components.
Innovation Solution
A flow cell holder with a receptacle and a separation mechanism featuring actuators and angled separators that can be moved uniformly to assemble or disassemble the flow cell without damaging it, along with alignment features and clamps to ensure proper alignment and secure contact between the flow cell layers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual assembly and disassembly of flow cell is performed, then the flow cell can be assembled and disassembled, but the alignment of multiple pieces becomes difficult and excess force may damage fragile pieces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a holder device as an intermediary tool between the operator and the flow cell components. The holder includes alignment features (alignment pins, alignment grooves) that guide the positioning of flow cell layers, and a compression mechanism that applies controlled force through a compression element. This intermediary device eliminates the need for manual alignment and force application, preventing damage to fragile components while enabling easy assembly and disassembly.
2Productivity
If multiple pieces are aligned manually, then the flow cell can be assembled, but the alignment process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The holder device serves as an intermediary that pre-establishes the alignment geometry through its structural features (alignment pins, grooves). This transfers the alignment complexity from the operator to the fixed geometry of the holder, enabling rapid assembly without manual alignment efforts.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder is pre-configured with alignment features and compression mechanisms before the assembly process begins. The alignment pins and grooves are permanently positioned to guide component placement, and the compression element is pre-loaded to provide automatic clamping force. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex alignment operations during assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
Devices (e.g., flow cell holders) and methods for flow cell assembly and disassembly are provided. The flow cell holders and methods can be used to join or separate the bottom and top layers of a flow cell.